Curator’s statement
As a Utah local, I've seen firsthand how special Park City is during the Christmas season. From snow-capped mountains to twinkling lights lining Main Street, there's an undeniable magic in the air. Families and groups alike can make lasting memories here - whether it's skiing down world-class slopes, sipping hot chocolate after a day in the snow, or simply strolling through town soaking up the festive spirit. Park City offers a quintessential old-fashioned Christmas experience that can't be matched. If you're looking to get away this December and make memories to last a lifetime, I highly recommend visiting this charming mountain town.
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Where to stay in Park City
Waldorf Astoria Park City
Luxe mountainside property at the base of Canyons (ski area) with posh rooms and multi-bedroom suites.
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade whenever possible.
Pendry Park City
This ski-in/ski-out boutique hotel merges its sunny West Coast disposition with a cozy, modernist alpine design.
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Montage Deer Valley
Ski-in/ski-out favorite with apartment-sized rooms, family-friendly restaurants and two pools in Park City, Utah.
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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$90 breakfast credit.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The St. Regis Deer Valley
This pet-friendly hotel brings traditional luxury to Park City's beautiful Wasatch Mountains, an outdoor lover's playground at any time of year.
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Goldener Hirsch, Auberge Resorts Collection
Choose from the chalet-style suites or modern residences at this ski-in/ski-out favorite.
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Rileigh to book your trip.
Things to do in Park City
1. Main Street Stroll - Strolling down Main Street really gets you into the Christmas spirit. All the old-fashioned buildings are decked out with lights, garlands and wreaths. There are often carolers or musicians playing festive tunes too. Pop into the shops and restaurants to find unique holiday gifts and enjoy a warm beverage by the fire.
2. Park City Mountain Resort - Hitting the slopes on Christmas Eve or Day is a long-held tradition here. The mountain views blanketed in fresh powder are gorgeous. Apres-ski with a mug of hot cocoa in the cabin-style lodges. At night, take the torchlight parade down the mountain as skiers hold glowing sticks.
3. Deer Valley Resort - Deer Valley goes all out with Christmas decor and events. Kids will love meeting Santa in his ski lodge workshop. Take photos in front of the giant Christmas tree made of skis. At night, you can go skating on the Olympic rink with glowing holiday lights all around.
4. Utah Olympic Park - The bobsled ride is extra thrilling around the holidays, as the track is lined with Christmas trees covered in ornaments and lights. Race down the track under the night sky for an experience unlike any other.
5. Snowmobiling - Snowmobiling allows you to explore the backcountry blanketed in white. Stop to make snowmen and snow angels along the way. End your evening tour with hot chocolate and s'mores around a campfire as you gaze at the stars.
6. Outlet Shopping - Shop for winter gear and holiday gifts for the whole family. The festive decor and piped in Christmas music will put you in the spirit as you search for deals.
7. Holiday Concerts - What better way to celebrate than with live Christmas music? Bundle up with some hot cocoa and sing along to classic carols and melodic orchestral performances.
8. Sundance Mountain Resort - Night skiing under the light of the moon and stars is magical at Sundance. The mountain is far less crowded too. Afterwards, sit by the fire in the lodge and recount the day's adventures over a delicious Christmas dinner at the Foundry Grill.
Day trips
The Ice Castles (Midway) - This magical ice castle experience is the perfect Christmas outing. Massive ice-sculpted caverns with twinkling lights, ice slides, fountains and more transform Midway into a winter wonderland. Bundle up for the chilly walk and be sure to go at night when it's all lit up. Grab a hot cocoa to warm back up afterward.
The Tree of Life (Salt Lake City) - Take a drive down to Temple Square in downtown Salt Lake to see this spectacular Christmas tree towering over the square. Over 100,000 LED lights adorn this conifer in front of the Salt Lake Temple. Carolers and performances happen nightly. Grab some apple cider and take a horse-drawn carriage ride around Temple Square after.
Christmas Lights at Temple Square (Salt Lake City) - Temple Square really shines during Christmas with hundreds of thousands of lights strung around the grounds and trees. The lights reflect beautifully off the temple, tabernacle, and visitor's center. Grab dinner downtown then stroll through the illuminated square, making sure to see the incredible nativity display.
Places to eat & drink in Park City
Riverhorse on Main - The rustic chic ambiance with twinkling lights and a roaring fireplace creates a magical holiday scene. Locals rave about their game dishes like elk chops and duck breast. Try the tenderloin with a red wine reduction for a Christmas treat.
Flanagan's On Main - Flanagan's really gets into the holiday spirit by decorating with giant Christmas trees and garlands everywhere. Kids will love their hot cocoa bar and festive pancake breakfasts. Locals recommend the seafood omelette topped with crab and lobster.
High West Distillery & Saloon - Settle into a cozy booth in this charming old western saloon accented with greenery and wreaths. Their signature meatloaf with local elk meat, mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts makes for a perfect Christmas meal.
Bangkok Thai on Main - For a unique holiday dinner, try Bangkok Thai's curries, noodles and stir fries. The intimate lighting and winter garden decor provides a peaceful ambiance. Locals suggest the creamy red curry and pad thai.
No Name Saloon & Grill - No Name really leans into its Old West vibe with cowboy Christmas decor. Come hungry for their 16 oz bone-in ribeye steak and loaded burgers. It's the perfect place for a casual, festive meal after playing in the snow.
Shabu - Watching your tableside hot pot bubble away is fun for the whole family. Shabu's Christmas decor is minimalist yet elegant. Locals recommend getting the premium wagyu beef and mushrooms to create a delicious broth.
Riverhorse Provisions - Stop at this gourmet market near Main Street for Christmas treats like peppermint bark, fruitcake cookies, and panettone. You can also pick up holiday charcuterie or a roasted turkey breast to go.
Easy Street Brasserie - The cozy streetside patio wrapped in twinkle lights sets the holiday mood. Easy Street is praised for seasonal dishes like roasted goose, braised short ribs and their hearty cioppino stew really warms you up after a day in the snow.
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Park City.